Mississippi Sweet Tea-Brined Chicken Wings

Introduction

These Mississippi Sweet Tea-Brined Chicken Wings are packed with authentic Southern flavor. A sweet tea brine gives them deep, rich taste, while a honey glaze balances things out with a touch of perfect caramelization. Prepared on the Arteflame grill using high heat for an unbeatable crispy bite, these wings are juicy, flavorful, and a true BBQ masterpiece.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken wings
• 4 cups sweet tea (strongly brewed and chilled)
• 1/4 cup kosher salt
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Brine

1. In a large bowl, mix the sweet tea, kosher salt, brown sugar, minced garlic, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
2. Stir well until the salt and sugar dissolve.
3. Submerge the chicken wings in the brine and refrigerate for 4-6 hours.

Step 2: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour a little vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them inside the grill.
2. Stack firewood on top of the napkins, light the paper, and allow the grill to heat for 20 minutes.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken Wings

1. Remove the wings from the brine and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Lightly brush them with melted butter to enhance the flavor.
3. Place the wings on the grill grate over the center for a steakhouse-quality sear (about 1-2 minutes per side).
4. Move them to the flat cooktop, positioning them closer to the outer edges for lower, controlled heat to finish cooking.
5. Cook until the wings reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 4: Apply the Honey Glaze

1. In a small bowl, mix honey, melted butter, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika.
2. Brush the glaze over the wings while they finish cooking for added caramelization.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Remove the wings when they reach 150°F, allowing them to continue cooking off-heat until they reach 165°F.
2. Rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips

• For even crispier wings, pat them completely dry before grilling.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
• Sear first on the hot center, then move to the cool edges to prevent burning.
• For extra heat, add cayenne to the glaze.

Variations

1. Spicy Buffalo Wings: Swap honey glaze for buffalo sauce and add extra cayenne.
2. Asian-Inspired Wings: Use soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil in place of the honey glaze.
3. Garlic Parmesan Wings: Coat in garlic butter and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan.
4. Lemon Pepper Wings: Skip the honey glaze and instead use butter, lemon juice, and cracked pepper.
5. Tennessee Whiskey Wings: Add a splash of whiskey to the glaze for a smoky depth.

Best pairings

• Grilled corn on the cob with butter
• Sweet potato fries cooked on the Arteflame griddle
• Crisp coleslaw for a refreshing contrast
• Homemade biscuits for a true Southern touch

Conclusion

Cooking these Mississippi Sweet Tea-Brined Chicken Wings on the Arteflame grill brings out deep, rich flavors through perfect grilling technique. The sweet and smoky glaze, combined with the crispy, juicy bite, makes for a show-stopping dish at any cookout.